Palestinian photojournalist receives Canada’s 2024 International Press Freedom award

By Merve Aydogan

HAMILTON, Canada (AA) - Palestinian photojournalist Samar Abu Elouf on Friday was named the recipient of the 2024 International Press Freedom Award by Canadian Journalists for Free Expression (CJFE).

"She is being honoured for breaking traditional gender roles and paving new paths for women in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territory," said a statement by CJFE.

Saying that her "latest work, documenting the war in Gaza since October 7, 2023, has earned critical acclaim," the statement noted that Abu Elouf's work also earned the 2024 Anja Niedringhaus Courage in Photojournalism Award and a George Polk Award.

"Samar Abu Elouf’s work goes beyond capturing images; she captures the very essence of humanity," said Carol Off, CJFE Gala chair, in the statement.

"Her determination to tell these important stories, despite the risks and challenges she faces, embodies the very spirit of press freedom that CJFE stands for," it added.

Abu Elouf will be honored at the CJFE Gala on Oct. 23, an event that celebrates courage in journalism and will be attended by top Canadian journalists and media organizations.